Open Access

Name your business: Now that you've determined the type of food business you’d like to start, you need to choose your business name, along with a possible logo and website. . When naming your business, keep in mind that the name should be web-friendly. It should be unique but easy to remember.
Pick a niche: Determine the type of cuisine, service, or convenience that you’d like to offer. This decision should be based on your market research.
Create a menu: Create a menu that is informed by your market research and the types of customers you’d like to serve. Consider how you will source the food products needed and the wait time for the food. You may want to create a consistent menu or a seasonal menu.
Online presence: Purchase your business’ domain name and web hosting. Utilize a website and social media to inform and attract customers, or if you sell a physical product, you can also expand your sales beyond your local community.

There are plenty of educational resources to help you build the skill sets and support system to become a successful entrepreneur and business owner.

Drexel University: offers certificate programs in both Food Entrepreneurship and Food Innovation where you can learn how to design and launch a new food product or concept.
Penn State Department of Food Science: offers short courses and workshops in HACCP plans, better processing, and food microbiology.
The Food Innovation Center at Rutgers University: offers programs for early-stage entrepreneurs and existing food companies in business, marketing, food safety, and product design.
The US Small Business Administration: provides educational guides and funding programs for people planning to start a small business.
The Enterprise Center: provides consulting services and finance solutions to small business owners.

Get Started